*Dean Kimberly Pinder and Emily McElwreath*

In today’s rapidly evolving art world, the balance between creativity and career-building has never been more critical. While galleries and advisors play an essential role in an artist’s journey, true success comes from collaborating with industry professionals while also advocating for yourself. There is no single path to success—each artist must find the right balance between professional partnerships and personal agency, ensuring that their career evolves on their own terms.

In our latest episode of Art & Cocktails, we sit down with Emily McElwreath—a seasoned art advisor, independent curator, educator, and host of The Art Career Podcast. With nearly two decades of experience, Emily has worked with some of the most influential figures in the art world, from Andy Warhol to Alice Neel. She brings a wealth of knowledge on how artists can take control of their careers, what collectors are truly looking for, and how meaningful connections are built in the art ecosystem.

In this episode, Emily discusses the importance of ambition in the art world, breaking outdated narratives that suggest artists should passively wait for opportunities rather than creating them. She emphasizes the need for artists to own their careers, build confidence, and embrace the power they hold as the foundation of the art industry.

Additionally, Emily shares her expertise on how collectors can make informed and meaningful acquisitions, the role of art advisors in navigating the art market, and why networking isn’t about cold outreach—it’s about fostering genuine, long-term relationships that help both artists and industry professionals grow.

For those looking for actionable insights, Emily also introduces Navigating the Art World: A Practical Guide for Artists, a comprehensive, free resource she developed to help artists successfully position themselves in today’s industry.

*Marilyn Minter in her studio with Emily McElwreath*

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

✔ Artists must reclaim their power. They are the center of the art ecosystem and should take ownership of their careers.

✔ Ambition is necessary, not a flaw. Success comes from actively shaping opportunities, not waiting for permission.

✔ Networking is about relationships, not transactions. Building meaningful connections with fellow artists, collectors, and curators is the foundation of a lasting career.

✔ Collectors should buy what they love but also educate themselves. Art is an investment, emotionally and financially.

✔ The art world is unregulated. This makes it essential to work with trusted advisors who have expertise in both art history and market trends.

✔ Artists don’t have to rely solely on galleries. Direct sales and self-advocacy are powerful tools for creative independence.

✔ Emily’s guide, Navigating the Art World, is a must-read for emerging artists. Available as a free resource, this guide offers insights on pricing, residencies, grants, working with galleries, and more.

*Artist Natalie Baxter and Emily McElwreath*
*Photographer: Josh Simpson*

Meet Emily McElwreath

Emily McElwreath brings over eighteen years of experience as an art advisor, independent curator, art educator, and brand consultant. She is the founder of McElwreath Art Advisory and serves as the host and CEO of The Art Career Podcast. Throughout her career, Emily has curated and organized programs, lectures, and panels featuring renowned artists at leading institutions, including Sotheby’s Education, The Whitney, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Emily previously served as the Director of Education at The Brant Foundation, where she worked on major exhibitions with artists such as Andy Warhol, Julian Schnabel, and Nate Lowman. Recently, she has focused on curating exhibitions for prominent emerging artists and remains dedicated to building relationships between artists, collectors, and the broader art community.

Currently, Emily is preparing to curate an exhibition at Ucross Foundation, opening on Founders Day 2025. She is also a participant in Pratt>Forward, a program led by Mickalene Thomas and Jane South, which supports and mentors emerging artists.

In addition to her advisory and curatorial work, Emily is developing Navigating the Art World: A Practical Guide for Artists, a comprehensive resource designed to equip artists with the knowledge and tools to successfully navigate their careers.

Where to Listen & Learn More

Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.
Download Emily’s Free Guide: Navigating the Art World: A Practical Guide for Artists – https://theartcareer.gumroad.com/l/wigdw
Visit Emily’s Website: McElwreath Art Advisory – https://www.mcelwreathadvisory.com/
Follow Emily on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilymcelwreath_art/
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5CSUfMZkb7uSlDeSe8ePcK?si=_oVwJhRZQ_-A-amMaBFJGw

Final Thoughts

This conversation is a must-listen for any artist looking to redefine their career path, take ownership of their ambitions, and understand the true power of authentic networking and market knowledge. Whether you’re an emerging artist, a seasoned collector, or someone interested in the evolving art landscape, Emily’s insights provide a refreshing, empowering perspective on navigating the industry with confidence.

Don’t miss this episode—tune in today and start reclaiming your place in the art world.